Have you ever felt like you have a calling from God, but you’re not sure what it is? You’re not alone. Many Christians struggle to figure out God’s calling for their lives. It can be a daunting task. But thankfully there are some things you can do to help discern God’s calling for your life.

The Bible encourages us to have faith in God and to rely on Him with all our hearts. If we acknowledge Him in all our decisions, He will direct us down the right path. We must have trust in the Lord and not rely on our own judgment. God has a purpose for each of us. And His plan is much more wonderful and amazing than our own expectations. If we place our faith in Him, He will lead us to our destiny and provide for our needs.

It is our responsibility to nurture the gifts that God has given us and to ensure that we are using them well.

We must let the Spirit of God work through us, and never be afraid to use our talents to serve Him. And through prayer, we can fan the flame of our God-given talents and use them to impact the world around us.

We are blessed to have the Spirit of God as our guide. As God’s children, we can be confident that if we are following the will of God, we can expect to be led by the Holy Spirit. As we put our trust in the Lord, He will direct us on the right path and provide us with the wisdom necessary to make decisions that will lead to a great future. We can be assured that the Spirit of God will always lead us in the right direction and provide us with the strength to continue our journey.

As a Christian, it is your purpose to build the Kingdom of God. You have been given special gifts and talents from God that you can use to live a life full of His presence and grace. To do this, you must be connected with Jesus and learn about who He is and what He desires for you. The Bible tells us that when we accept Jesus as our Savior, we receive the spirit of wisdom and revelation that leads us closer to Him. Knowing Jesus intimately will change you and give you a deeper understanding of the calling He has for you.

God’s plan for your life can be achieved when you devote your energy, talents, focus and attention to the task at hand. When we give God our all, He will bring out the best in us. The Bible encourages us to pursue the life God has called us to and to remain faithful and committed to His plan, even in the face of opposition. As we grow closer to Christ and distance ourselves from the distractions that keep us apart from Him, it only makes sense to give Him our best.

We must remain diligent and focused on God’s will for our lives, or else we will become vulnerable to the enemy’s schemes. The Bible warns us to be wary and keep a close eye on how we live our lives and how we teach others. We must stay true to what is right so that we can be saved and those around us are saved as well. It is vital that we keep our priorities straight so that we are not drawn away from God’s path.

The Bible encourages us to look for the Lord and His might continually. Invite God into your prayers, asking Him to reveal His plans for you and your life. Pray for the faith and boldness to follow Him and His will, regardless of the unknowns. This will help you carry out God’s mission and bring glory to His kingdom.

Living a life worthy of Christ’s calling can be a difficult endeavor, but it is also one of the most rewarding things you can do. In order to live a life worthy of Christ’s calling, you must strive to be an example of His love and grace to others.

Make sure that you are spending time with God each day. This could mean praying, reading your Bible, or just spending time in reflection and meditation. Whenever you feel stressed or overwhelmed, remember to turn to God for strength and guidance.

It can be easy to get caught up in the darkness of the world around us, but it’s important to remember our role as a beacon of light. Bring a sense of hope and joy to those around you.

It is important to remember that love is at the center of what God calls us to do. We must strive to love others as we would want to be loved. Show compassion, understanding, and mercy to those around you.

We are encouraged by Jesus to reach out and help others. Look for opportunities to lend a hand and make a difference in the lives of those around us or those in need of assistance.

Humility is essential to living a life worthy of Christ’s calling. Be honest with yourself and recognize that you are not perfect and that you will make mistakes.

Make an effort to live in accordance with your values and principles. Do your best to be honest and ethical in everything you do.

It is easy to give up when things get difficult, but it is important to remember that God calls us to persevere. Don’t be discouraged by setbacks; instead, stay focused and keep striving for what God has called you to do.

Striving to lead a life that is pleasing to God is no easy feat. But when we accept His grace and trust in His wisdom, we have the power to make a valuable contribution to the world. Through prayer and dedication, we can live a life that reflects Christ’s teachings and gives glory to our Lord.

Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near to least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One-third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet, Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people, and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!

As disciples, we invest time in Bible study, prayer, worship, and fellowship with other believers. These are all crucial elements in deepening our connection with God. However, there is another equally important aspect of discipleship that can sometimes be overlooked—our emotional well-being. Emotionally healthy discipleship combines both our spiritual and emotional growth. This creates a more holistic approach to developing as followers of Christ.

Global Disciples is committed to training leaders in least-reached communities to multiply disciples of Jesus Christ. And spread His Good News.

We must recognize the value of emotional health in nurturing strong, resilient disciples. People who can effectively navigate the challenges of life, both as individuals and as members of faith communities.

Emotionally healthy discipleship is an essential resource for spiritual development. It provides practical guidance and support in maintaining emotional balance while deepening our relationship with Jesus.

In this blog post, we will explore the concept of emotionally healthy discipleship. We’ll learn its importance in fostering spiritual growth, and practical strategies for cultivating emotional wellness within faith communities.

We can build healthy relationships, fostering resilience and stability while remaining deeply connected to God.

By adopting emotionally healthy discipleship practices, faith communities can become safe spaces for people to openly share their struggles. We can learn from one another, and grow closer to God. Investing in our emotional health allows for the development of authentic relationships and a deeper understanding of God’s love and grace

Components of Emotionally Healthy Discipleship

A well-rounded approach to discipleship must consider both the spiritual and emotional aspects of our relationships with God and one another. Emotionally healthy discipleship incorporates several key components such as:

Self-awareness is essential for emotionally healthy discipleship and requires an honest examination of our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. As disciples, it’s important to acknowledge our emotions, understand the underlying factors that contribute to them, and recognize their impact on our relationship with God and others.

Developing emotional intelligence enables us to better manage our emotions, empathize with others, and communicate effectively. To cultivate emotional intelligence, invest in strengthening your ability to recognize and regulate your emotions, empathize with others, and maintain healthy interpersonal relationships.

Maintaining healthy boundaries is crucial for emotional well-being and strong relationships in faith communities. Boundaries protect us from emotional exhaustion and help us establish a balance between personal needs and our commitment to serve others.

Explore your boundaries by identifying areas where you might be overextending yourself or disregarding your emotional needs. Establish clear limits that honour your priorities, and ensure you are also respectful of the boundaries set by others.

The development of emotional resilience is a vital aspect of emotionally healthy discipleship. Resilience helps us navigate difficult circumstances and maintain our emotional balance during times of stress, loss, or disappointment.

To build emotional resilience, focus on strengthening your faith and trust in God, seeking support from your faith community, and cultivating healthy coping mechanisms to handle challenges. Developing emotional resilience enables us to serve as effective witnesses for Christ, even in the face of adversity.

Fostering authentic community and connection within faith communities provides an environment where disciples can share their struggles, vulnerabilities, and emotional challenges openly, without fear of judgment. This supportive atmosphere encourages growth, healing, and transformation, as well as increased empathy and understanding among believers.

Promote authentic connection by creating safe spaces that encourage open dialogue, active listening, and mutual support. Establishing an environment of trust and empathy will help your faith community build strong, life-giving relationships.

Implementing emotionally healthy discipleship practices within your faith community requires intentionality, effort, and ongoing support. Here are some practical strategies for fostering emotional health among disciples:

1. Encourage Open Discussions About Emotional Health: Normalize conversations about emotions by regularly addressing these topics in sermons, Bible studies, and small group discussions. Highlight biblical examples of emotional vulnerability and encourage believers to share their experiences and feelings openly.

2. Incorporate Emotional Health into Leadership Training: Equip leaders with the tools, resources, and knowledge necessary to prioritize emotional health within their ministries. Teach leaders to recognize signs of emotional distress and ensure they receive adequate support and training to navigate these challenges.

3. Provide Access to Mental Health Resources: Partner with professional mental health providers to offer support, counselling services, and educational resources that address common emotional challenges faced by disciples.

4. Establish Support Groups: Create safe spaces for individuals to come together and share their emotional struggles with like-minded believers. Support groups can provide an environment of understanding and mutual encouragement, fostering strong community bonds among disciples.

Emotionally healthy discipleship involves a commitment to nurturing the emotional and spiritual well-being of individuals within our faith communities. By prioritizing emotional health and implementing intentional strategies to promote emotional wellness, we can create an environment that supports the growth, healing, and transformation of believers.

As we cultivate an emotionally healthy discipleship culture, our faith communities become stronger, more resilient, and better equipped to navigate the complexities of life, all the while drawing closer to God and growing in spiritual maturity.

Emotionally healthy discipleship is essential for fostering spiritual growth and resilience within faith communities. By integrating self-awareness, emotional intelligence, healthy boundaries, emotional resilience, and authentic community connection into our discipleship practices, we create an environment conducive to emotional well-being and spiritual transformation.

By actively promoting emotional health and implementing practical strategies within our faith communities, we can support one another as we develop deep, authentic relationships, broadening our understanding of God’s love, grace, and truth and growing into resilient, effective witnesses for Christ in a challenging world. Emotionally healthy discipleship is not only a worthy goal but an essential component of a thriving, dynamic faith community committed to sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ.

Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One-third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet. Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people, and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!

The phrase “the joy of the Lord is my strength” is a powerful declaration that has deep spiritual significance. It reminds us of the incredible source of strength and empowerment that comes from having a personal relationship with God.

In the Bible, specifically in the book of Nehemiah, we find this phrase mentioned. Nehemiah, a faithful servant of God, faced numerous challenges and opposition as he sought to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. Despite difficulties and overwhelming circumstances, he declared:

“Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength” (Nehemiah 8:10, ESV).

So, what does this phrase really mean? It means that when we find our joy in the Lord, our strength is renewed and invigorated. It is a call to find our confidence, hope, and courage in the presence of God. When we fully trust in Him and rely on His promises, our hearts are filled with joy

And that joy becomes the foundation of our strength.

The world we live in can be challenging and draining. We face trials, temptations, and hardships that can easily weaken our resolve. However, the joy found in the Lord is not dependent on our circumstances. It is a deep, abiding joy that comes from knowing that we are loved, forgiven, and empowered by God.

When we tap into the joy of the Lord, it becomes a source of resilience and endurance. It gives us the strength to persevere in the face of adversity,

The Bible verse “the joy of the Lord is my strength” is found in Nehemiah 8:10. In this powerful verse, Nehemiah exhorts the people of Israel to celebrate and rejoice in the Lord, for it is through His joy that they find strength. This verse reminds us that, as believers, our source of strength is not found in our own abilities or circumstances, but rather in the joy that comes from knowing and serving the Lord.

The context of this verse is when Ezra the scribe brought the Book of the Law to the people after the walls of Jerusalem were rebuilt. The people had been in exile and were deeply moved by the reading of the Law. However, instead of being sorrowful and overwhelmed by their failures, Nehemiah encouraged them to rejoice in the Lord’s goodness and faithfulness.

This powerful verse serves as a reminder to us today. In the midst of trials and challenges, we can find strength not in our own efforts, but in the joy that comes from our relationship with God. It is His joy that empowers us to face difficulties, overcome obstacles, and persevere in our faith.

As local churches seeking discipleship training and mobilization resources, it is crucial that we cultivate a culture of joy and celebration. By constantly reminding ourselves of the joy we have in the Lord, we can encourage one another, inspire growth, and strengthen our collective witness to the world.

Let us therefore embrace this truth and let the joy of the Lord be our strength

1. The Source of our Joy:

Before we delve into the strength that joy brings, let us remember that our joy is rooted in the Lord Himself. It is not dependent on our circumstances but rather on our relationship with Him. As Psalm 16:11 says, “You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence.” Therefore, the joy of the Lord is constant, unchanging, and readily available to all who seek it.

2. Renewed Perspective:

When we experience the joy of the Lord, it brings a shift in our perspective. It enables us to view life’s challenges through a spiritual lens, focusing on God’s faithfulness and promises rather than being overwhelmed by our circumstances. This renewed perspective infuses us with strength, as we realize that our joy is not contingent on what we face but on who walks beside us.

3. Strength in the Midst of Trials:

The joy of the Lord acts as a shield that guards our hearts and minds when we find ourselves in the midst of trials and tribulations. When our soulsare anchored in the joy of the Lord, we are able to endure hardships with resilience and perseverance. As the apostle Paul wrote in Romans 5:3-4, “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” The joy of the Lord fuels our perseverance, enabling us to press on and find strength even in the most challenging times.

4. Empowerment for Kingdom Work:

When we tap into the joy of the Lord, we are empowered for Kingdom work. It ignites a passion within us to share the love of Christ and make disciples. As Nehemiah 8:10 reminds us, “Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” This joy empowers us to step out in faith, serve others selflessly, and boldly proclaim the Gospel. It gives us the strength to fulfill the Great Commission and make an impact for eternity.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the joy of the Lord is not simply a fleeting emotion or a temporary feeling of happiness. It is a deep-rooted, unshakeable source of strength that sustains us in all circumstances. As we cultivate a culture of joy and celebration in our local churches, we become a powerful testimony to the world of the transformative power of Christ. Let us, therefore, embrace the joy of the Lord and allow it to strengthen us, inspire us, and empower us for Kingdom work.

Finding joy in the Lord is not just a fleeting emotion, but a deep and abiding state of being. It is a choice we can make every day, regardless of our circumstances. So, how can we find joy in the Lord? Here are a few powerful ways:

1. Seek Him wholeheartedly: To find joy in the Lord, we must first seek Him wholeheartedly. This means making time for prayer, reading the Bible, and meditating on His Word. As we draw near to Him, we will experience His presence and joy in a profound way.

2. Cultivate gratitude: Gratitude is a key ingredient in finding joy in the Lord. Take time each day to count your blessings and thank God for His goodness. Gratitude shifts our focus from what we lack to what we have, filling our hearts with joy and contentment.

3. Surrender and trust: Letting go of our own plans and surrendering to God’s will is essential for finding joy in the Lord. Trust that His plans for us are good, even when things don’t go as we expect. Surrendering our desires and trusting in His wisdom brings a deep sense of peace and joy.

4. Serve others: Joy in the Lord is often found when we serve others selflessly. Look for opportunities to be a blessing to those around you, whether it’s within your church community or in your daily interactions. Serving others with love and compassion brings joy both to them and to us.

Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One-third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet. Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people, and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!

As followers of Jesus Christ, we know the power and importance of immersing ourselves in Scripture. The Bible is God’s living Word, His direct communication with us, and an endless source of wisdom, inspiration, and guidance. To make the most of our time spent reading the Bible, it is valuable to begin with prayer.

Its an intentional act that can help us prepare our hearts and minds to receive God’s teaching. 

This blog post is designed to guide the benefits of prayer before reading the Bible.

We’ll also give practical advice and examples to help you connect and cultivate a receptive heart for God’s Word.

Global Disciples Canada is dedicated to training leaders living near least-reached communities to be disciples of Jesus Christ and share His Good News.

An essential aspect involves equipping believers with the tools and resources necessary to grow and deepen their faith.

We believe that prayerful engagement with the Bible can help transform lives, providing individuals with valuable insights into God’s character. And empowering them to serve as effective messengers of His love and truth.

When we approach the Bible with a prayerful attitude, we acknowledge our dependence on God. We actively engage our hearts and minds with the text, allowing it to take root and nourish our spirits. In doing so, we can better understand God’s message and discern how it applies to our unique circumstances. And ultimately we’ll see spiritual growth and ability to embody Christ’s teachings daily.

In the following sections, we will delve into the importance of prayer before reading the Bible. We’ll explore the benefits of this approach, and suggestions for crafting heartfelt prayers that will draw you closer to God.

These insights will enrich your understanding of God’s Word and enhance your experience with it.

Prayer is a crucial element of the Christian faith, serving as our direct line of communication with God. When we pray before reading the Bible, we prepare ourselves spiritually and mentally to receive God’s teachings. Praying before study allows us to:

1. Invite the Holy Spirit: Invite the Holy Spirit to join us in our study and help us understand His message.

2. Acknowledge our Dependence: Humility is essential to our spiritual growth. Through prayer, we acknowledge our need for God’s wisdom, grace, and direction. We recognize that we cannot fully comprehend His Word without His help.

3. Cultivate an Open Heart: Prayer lets us quiet our minds and focus our thoughts.

Consider incorporating one or more of the following elements into your daily invocation:

1. Acknowledge God’s Presence: Begin your prayer by greeting God and acknowledging His presence with you. Express your gratitude for His loving guidance and the opportunity to study His Word.

Example: “Heavenly Father, I thank You for this opportunity to spend time in Your Word and for Your loving presence that surrounds me as I read.”

2. Ask for Discernment and Understanding: Request that the Holy Spirit fills you with wisdom, guidance, and clarity as you read, enabling you to interpret the text accurately and apply its teachings to your life.

Example: “Lord, I pray that Your Holy Spirit would take the lead as I study these Scriptures, granting me discernment and understanding so that I may glean the wisdom that You have for me.”

3. Express a Desire for Transformation: Affirm your desire for God’s teachings to effect positive change in your life, shaping your thoughts, actions, and relationships in alignment with His will.

Example: “God, I ask that Your Word would be like a seed planted deeply within my heart, taking root and transforming my thoughts, actions, and relationships, so that I may be a living reflection of Your love and grace.”

4. Pray for Others: In addition to personal growth, Bible study also enables us to offer support, guidance, and encouragement to those around us. End your prayer with a petition for God’s wisdom and guidance in your interactions and relationships with others.

Example: “Father, as I grow in my understanding of Your Word, equip me with the tools and wisdom needed to be a beacon of Your truth to those around me. Help me to live out Your teachings in all aspects of my life.”

To further deepen your prayer life and enhance your connection to God’s Word, consider incorporating relevant Scripture verses into your prayers. By including passages from the Bible, you reaffirm the divine authority and power of these words, allowing them to impact your mind and heart in a profound way. Below are some Scripture verses that can be integrated into your pre-reading prayers:

1. Psalm 119:18 – “Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.”

2. James 1:5 – “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”

3. John 16:13 – “When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come.”

To make the most of your time spent in God’s Word, aim to establish a daily routine that combines both prayer and Bible study. Dedicate a specific time and place for your devotional activities, engaging with Scripture and prayer in a focused and intentional manner. As you deepen your connection with God through these daily practices, you will find that your faith, understanding, and spiritual growth are significantly enriched.

Prayer before reading the Bible is an essential practice for cultivating a receptive and open heart to God’s teachings. Through prayer, we invite the Holy Spirit to guide us in our study, acknowledge our dependence on God, and express our desire for personal transformation. 

Using sample prayers, incorporating Scripture verses, and establishing a daily habit of prayerful Bible study, we can experience growth in our faith, develop a deeper understanding of God’s Word, and lead lives profoundly impacted by His love and truth. Feel free to visit Global Disciples Canada’s website today.

Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near to reach least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet, Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people, and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!

One of the most important facets of their spiritual growth is developing a deep understanding of the Bible.

This sacred text offers wisdom, guidance, and inspiration. It serves as the foundation for a meaningful relationship with God and Jesus Christ. However, many newcomers may find themselves overwhelmed and unsure where to begin. This blog post aims to guide those new to the Bible in deciding which book to read first.

Global Disciples believes that every believer has the potential to become a leader. Someone who can reach out and touch the least-reached communities. We train leaders to multiply disciples of Jesus Christ and spread His Good News. One critical aspect of this mission involves immersing ourselves in the Word of God.

The Bible is composed of two main parts. The Old Testament, consisting of 39 individual books, and the New Testament, which includes 27 books. It encompasses a diverse range of literary forms, such as poetry, prophecy, history, parables, and letters. Each book offering unique insights into God’s message and character.

The Old Testament contains accounts of the creation of the world, the history of the Israelite nation. It also outlines the establishment of the covenant between God and His people. The New Testament focuses on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. It also covers the founding and early history of the Christian Church.

With this in mind, the primary question remains: What book in the Bible should I read first? We hope this guide will provide valuable insights and practical tips to enrich your understanding of God’s Word.

A great place to start is with the Gospel. Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, are the first four books of the New Testament. Each Gospel offers a unique perspective on the life of Jesus. Reading them helps to develop an understanding of His character, compassion, and wisdom.

The Book of Matthew presents a comprehensive account of Jesus’ life. Written for a Jewish audience it contains evidence of fulfilled prophecies, and extensive teachings, including the Sermon on the Mount. The Gospel of Mark, being the shortest of the four, is a concise and fast-paced narrative. Luke offers a detailed, orderly account of the events surrounding Jesus’ ministry. Finally, the Gospel of John provides a more in-depth exploration of Jesus’ divinity. He emphasizes Jesus role as the “Word made flesh.”

Some recommended starting points include:

1. Genesis: Genesis describes the creation of the world, humanity, and the nation of Israel. It also provides important background information on God’s covenant relationship with His people.

2. Exodus: This book narrates the story of the Israelites’ escape from Egyptian slavery, led by Moses. It outlines their journey through the wilderness, and the receiving of the Ten Commandments.

3. Psalms: Is a collection of 150 poems, songs, and prayers offers profound insights into human emotions, spiritual devotion, and worship. The Psalms are an invaluable resource for personal reflection and prayer.

4. Proverbs: This book is filled with practical wisdom and guidance on how to live a righteous, fulfilling life. It gives advice on topics such as finances, relationships, and personal conduct.

Once you have familiarized yourself with the Gospels and some of the essential Old Testament books, the next step is to explore the Epistles—letters written by early Christian leaders to various churches and individuals. These writings, contained mainly in the New Testament, offer valuable teachings on faith, love, and how to live as a disciple of Jesus Christ in a complex and changing world.

Some of the most influential Epistles to start with include:

1. Romans: Written by the Apostle Paul, this letter provides a comprehensive overview of the Christian faith, including themes such as salvation, grace, and the transformative power of Jesus’ death and resurrection.

2. Ephesians: Another important Pauline letter, Ephesians emphasizes the importance of Christian unity and encourages believers to live in love and harmony with one another.

3. James: This practical and concise letter is often referred to as the “Proverbs of the New Testament.” It offers vital guidance on living a life of genuine faith, emphasizing the importance of personal integrity, good works, and the power of prayer.

4. 1 Peter: Addressed to early Christian communities facing persecution, this letter encourages followers of Jesus to remain steadfast in their faith, despite the challenges they may face.

While the above recommendations offer a general guideline for approaching the Bible, it is essential to develop a study plan tailored to your unique interests, needs, and learning style. Consider your personal goals for reading Scripture—are you seeking to deepen your understanding of the Christian faith, find guidance for your daily life, or explore the historical context of biblical events? By defining your objectives, you can create a roadmap for your journey through the Word of God, prioritizing the books and themes most relevant to your growth.

Developing a habit of daily Bible reading and reflection is also key to deepening your understanding of Scripture. Whether you choose to meditate on a single verse or read an entire chapter per day, consistency is crucial for staying engaged and nurturing your connection to the divine message.

Deciding where to start reading the Bible can be a daunting task, but taking a strategic approach that focuses on key books and themes can prove to be highly beneficial. By beginning with the Gospels, exploring essential Old Testament books, delving into the Epistles, and developing a personalized study plan, you can lay the foundation for a rewarding and transformative encounter with the Word of God. Remember that studying Scripture is an ongoing journey and remain open to the lessons and inspiration it has to offer as you embark on your voyage of faith.

Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near to reach least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet, Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people, and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!

Every church in the world needs leaders who follow the way of Jesus. People with a vision for His mission, for church growth and to multiply discipleship-focused leaders.

As we work with churches to multiply disciples we also work to see leaders multiplied for these churches.

As Global Disciples, we see leadership development as absolutely essential to ensure that these new churches grow into healthy fellowships.

Thomas directs a leadership development program in Zimbabwe, through his local church. They meet for about an hour and a half on Sunday afternoons. Some of the group comes from the other side of town. It’s a high-density area about 10 kilometers away.

Last year, as they met together and studied what it means to be a leader in the model of Jesus. Thomas said, “God did something in the hearts of these leaders. They began to feel God’s call to be leaders that ‘make things happen.’”

And part of making things happen was to plant a new church, in that heavily populated area of the city.

This new church is now led by three men from the leadership training, with an attendance of more than 30 people. With their location, and the vision to “make things happen” for the Kingdom, these leaders are anticipating much greater growth in the future.

Thomas said, “One of my hopes and prayers for our program is that we see leaders emerging who can take responsibility for our churches.”

And he talked about Matthew, another participant in the training. “He has been absolutely faithful in attending,” Thomas said, “and also teaches some of the lessons. This program has prepared Matthew for leadership. Through the progress and transformation that’s evident in his life, it seemed good to us and to the Holy Spirit to appoint him as a pastor in the church I’ve been pastoring, which strengthened our church.”

Planting churches, strengthening the Body of Christ, and shepherding good growth. This is what we see God doing through the many leaders as we seek to train and multiply them around the world. And for that we are grateful.

Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One-third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet. Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people, and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!

Do you recognise the power of listening?

We often think of leaders as being assertive, decisive, and with a winsome personality. But the most successful leaders are almost always those who understand the value of listening often and well to others.

As you read through the book of Ezekiel it is evident that much of what was written was a result of simply listening to what God was speaking. And then communicating it to the people. In fact, we could say that is true of all Scripture. God spoke to the prophets, apostles, and chosen others who listened and wrote what God spoke to them. And today we have this powerful book, the Bible.

for no prophecy was ever made by an act of human will, but men moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God.
– 2 Peter 1:21

Listening is crucial in the lives of leaders. It enables us to connect with our teams on a much deeper level, and to make more informed decisions. And listening well to our leaders allows us to understand them and, when needed, discern the best way forward.

Listening is a critical skill for effective leadership, followership, and discipleship. Let’s listen well and create a culture of openness, respect, and collaboration, leading to success and sustainability.

Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One-third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet. Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people, and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!

When God gives a person a vision for the Kingdom, He may give him unexpected opportunities to influence others.

Andres leads a discipleship-mission training program in the Philippines.

He’s a long-time partner with Global Disciples and he’s seen God work through the disciple-making church planters he’s trained. He’s an enthusiastic mentor for those starting new discipleship-mission trainings. And recently Andres shared his experience and vision with a group of other church planters.

“We have 20 churches in our conference,” Andres shared, “but we have a dream that we will have 100 churches. Last year, we started 26 new fellowships!” While many of these fellowships are still small, that’s significant growth for just 20 churches—more than doubling in a year.

Andres said, “We have learned that if we seek to make disciples first, we will have a church. But if we try to start a church, we will not find disciples.”

They sent one of their disciple-making teams to neighboring Indonesia, to share the Gospel mostly with Muslims.

While they were there, they started some new fellowships.

Andres has significant influence in another area—with local political leaders. “Our place is known for violence during elections,” he said, “and the Lord put it on our hearts to do something. So we called the candidates for mayor, and asked them to sign a covenant that they will not use violence during the campaign but campaign in an honorable way. And if they win, they will allow us to do a Bible study in their office.”

It worked—since all candidates signed on, the elections were held peacefully.

And then, Andres has led Bible studies with employees and leaders in local government, often using Global Disciples materials on leadership development. He said, “They’re not church goers but I have seen God’s hand on them. They embrace and respond to the Gospel message. We also have access to school teachers in our community and we teach them biblical principles.”

Like many others, Andres has the vision to take the Gospel to those still waiting to hear it, no matter where they are in position, influence, or geography.

Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One-third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet. Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people, and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!

Fire is mentioned often in the Bible.

For our God is a consuming fire.
– Hebrews 12:29

John answered them all, saying, “I baptize you with water, but he who is mightier than I is coming, the strap of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.
– Luke 3:16

We see the word appearing several hundred times in the Old Testament and around 70 times in the New Testament. But the references to fire in the Bible that are most memorable are the times there was an obvious fire that didn’t destroy what was burning.

There was the burning bush that Moses saw (Exodus 3:1-3). And a pillar of fire led the people of Israel in their flight from Egypt (Exodus 13:20-22). After the Tabernacle was built, that fire hovered over the Holy of Holies – always in view of over a million people in their huge tent city (Exodus 40:38).

In these situations the fire represented one thing, the presence of our Almighty God (represented by an angel in the burning bush).

God directed Moses, even though he resisted, to go to Pharoah and build a case for granting freedom to the mass of slaves who were building huge, impressive cities of brick for the king’s own fame and prestige. The plagues that followed finally convinced him.

The description of what happened after the Tabernacle was completed is amazing.

A cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night “covered the tent of meeting, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle. And Moses was not able to enter the tent of meeting because…the glory of the Lord filled the Tabernacle. Throughout all their journeys, whenever the cloud was taken up …, the people of Israel would set out. If the cloud was not taken up, then they did not set out…” (Exodus 40:34-38)

Yet, even more amazing is what happened about 1,500 years later.

Jesus promised his disciples that they would soon “receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon” them and that they will be His “witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” (Acts 1:8)

The disciples of Jesus, about 120 in all, were waiting in prayer and expectation when suddenly it happened! That pillar of fire which had hovered over the dwelling place of God in the Tabernacle now came. “Divided tongues of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them.” (Acts 2:3)

Let that incredible symbolism sink in!

The pillar of fire that hovered over the Holy of Holies in the Tabernacle now hovers over you and me! This leads to this astounding proclamation of the Apostles Paul, “Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?… For God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple.” (1 Corinthians 3:16-17) Just let that sink in!

We are God’s temple! How well are we caring for this temple? How well are we representing Jesus?

Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One-third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet. Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people, and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!

Learn how discipleship leads to multiplication and how you can participate in Jesus’ Great Commission and see lives transformed!

When Jesus called His first disciples, He gave them an invitation…and a promise. As He walked by the Sea of Galilee, He saw Simon, who He called Peter, and Andrew casting their nets into the lake because they were fishermen. Jesus called out to them, Follow me” —the invitation. “And I will make you fishers of men” —the promise. “I will send you out to fish for people.” It’s a package deal!

When Jesus calls us to follow Him, it’s an invitation with an expected outcome: to be disciples who make disciples.

At Global Disciples, we talk about this as “discipleship-mission.” Jesus invites us to discipleship—the process of being a disciple. A disciple is a learner, a follower, an imitator. As disciples of Jesus, we are to follow the pattern of Jesus in His practice of living.

We learn how to live to be like Jesus.

That’s discipleship.

You and me, placing our faith in Jesus Christ for salvation. And following His instructions and example to live according to His pattern.

But He promises to make disciples into “fishers of men.” And that’s the mission part. We are not only to be His disciples. We must actively engage in helping others follow the pattern of Jesus’ life. In fact, we are disciples on a mission.

In Global Disciples, our goal is to train men and women to be both disciples—and disciple-makers. We want to see people come to know Jesus as their Savior and to be His disciples. People who follow His pattern and make new disciples. And that’s how the Body of Christ grows.

So we work alongside the Body of Christ to equip believers to be disciples who follow Jesus and fulfill His mission. By putting our efforts where disciple-makers will go and make disciples among people who have not yet heard the Good News of Jesus, we are fulfilling the mission Jesus gave to all His disciples to multiply “even to the ends of the earth.”

As Global Disciples, we put our efforts into training and equipping people to be disciples … and to make disciples of Jesus Christ. The essence of discipleship is following and obeying Jesus. In the process, we become more like Him in our thoughts, our motives, our speech, our actions, our relationships, and priorities.

The book of Second Peter gives us a beautiful insight into the essence of discipleship, a letter written to those who, “through the righteousness of God and our Savior Jesus Christ have received a faith as precious as ours.” In chapter 1, verse 2, Peter writes: “Grace and peace be yours in abundance through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and excellence. Through these he has given us his great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption of the world caused by evil desires.”

That phrase—participate in the divine nature—should arrest our souls. We love the idea of being “co-laborers with Christ” as it says in First Corinthians 3:9. And as Christians, we often talk about doing what we do for, to, and with Christ—as an act of worship to God. That all we do is done for God and for His glory. And that nothing is impossible, because we do it all with the power of the Spirit which raised Jesus from the dead.

But in Second Peter, we are invited to participate with God—not only in what we do but to participate in His divine nature. To become like him in character and in our desires. To have the mind of Christ we read about in Philippians 2:5-8—being humble servants, obedient even to death. Think about that.

That’s our great challenge in becoming a disciple…and in making disciples too.

As Global Disciples, we talk about multiplying disciples and multiplying churches. But there’s another level of multiplication we’re excited to see. Let’s call it — multiplying the multipliers. 

Let us explain: We train leaders in clusters of churches around the world to train disciples who in turn are equipped to make more disciples and start new churches.

That’s one level of multiplication – the one we talk about the most.

But we’ve also developed those who train the church leaders, to launch and direct training programs. We look for men and women who’ve led discipleship-mission programs, and have the ability and experience to train the next generation of program directors. So they’re the ones who will multiply the multipliers!

In the over 60 countries we work in, we now have “on the ground” staff leading the 2-week training sessions for new directors for discipleship-mission training programs! Adding locally-based trainers allows us to multiply training for new workers more rapidly!  We have people with the experience and credibility – and with a better cultural understanding – who can successfully provide quality training. This multiplies our ability to meet more and more requests we receive for our Global Disciples model.

A recent directors training in Kenya was conducted by our Kenya staff facilitators, without relying on any North American trainers. Victor led the training and he wrote, “Thank you so much for delegating this directors training to us. We can assure you we gave our very best… Participants went home revived, with a new vision, passion, energy, and a renewed focus on multiplying disciples and churches among least-reached people groups. It is our prayer that these leaders will not be distracted by the enemy but will focus on the vision.”

Our heart at Global Disciples is to Multiplying disciples, multiplying churches, and multiplying the multipliers. All this so the Good News of Jesus can be shared with those who have yet to hear it.

Our goal as Christians is to be a disciple of Jesus Christ.

Our vision at Global Disciples Canada is to see that every person has an opportunity to hear the Good News of Jesus Christ in a way they can understand and respond to.

Our mission as Christians is to train other disciples to go and make disciples.

You can learn more about Global Disciples Canada HERE.

Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One-third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet. Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people, and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!